A Tiny, “Empty” Balcony Transforms into a Colorful Summer Retreat
When it comes to outdoor space, a little something is better than nothing. And it turns out you can turn a little something into a whole lot of paradise. Take architect and interior designer Tvara Sharma’s (@tvarasharma) outdoor space, for example. With a few clever updates, she transformed her 50-square-foot balcony into an outdoor haven.
“Before the renovation, the balcony was an empty, non-usable space with plain white paint,” Sharma says. “It felt underutilized and lacked any character or functionality.” While it’s a narrow area, she knew it had the potential to be a “cozy corner.”
The renter-friendly makeover was part of the One Room Challenge, and the goal was to turn the patio into a versatile zone where Sharma could “work from home during the day and relax with tea and music in the evening.”
Create a Custom Look with DIY Design
“The simplicity of the space allowed for a smooth and efficient design process,” Sharma says. First, Sharma gave the space a new lick of paint, Asian Paint’s Morning Glory 0765. The neutral hue instantly opened and brightened up the space. She designed her own furniture pieces, creating the seating area with built-in storage inside the bench. Taking inspiration from the lush greenery that the patio overlooks, she painted the seating in a gorgeous green hue (Asian Paint Camelot 6792). The cushions on the seat are waterproof.
“For me, there’s never enough ‘green,’ so I added planters strategically behind the seat and on the wall, making the most of the limited space in the narrow balcony,” Sharma says. She also added a bamboo backdrop for “a fresh touch and a sense of tranquility.”
Use Every Inch of Space You Have — Without Adding Clutter
Every detail was meticulously planned on a mood board to achieve a serene and calming space that’s both functional and stylish. Sharma chose a clear table to provide storage without having the balcony feel crowded. The use of vertical space above the seating area draws the eyes upward to help make the area look bigger and more open. “The wooden planter atop the bench creates a pseudo ‘green wall’ finish without cluttering the space,” she says.
Sharma’s background as an architect and designer really helped to streamline the process. “With minimal elements, adding a pop of color through decor was an easy task,” she notes.
“Overall, the new space makes me feel incredibly content and relaxed,” Sharma says. “It’s now a cozy retreat where I can unwind with a cup of tea, enjoy the view of the lush green park, and feel completely at peace.”
Her advice for anyone thinking about upgrading their outdoor space is to just do it. “Adding a seating area, some greenery, and decor that aligns with your vibe can transform even the smallest balcony into a cozy and inviting retreat,” she says.
Inspired? Submit your own project here.
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